Artwork
A King Pursued by a Unicorn
A King Pursued by a Unicorn is an ink print by the Renaissance artist Jean Duvet. It dates from 1555 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
- Inscription
- Inscribed:"OSMG 2 Paris" verso, lower right margin, graphite, unknown hand. "RD 55 10166 C = 10737" verso, center left, graphite, unknown hand.
- Markings
- Marked:"National Gallery of Art, LJR" verso, lower left margin, black stamped ink. Rosenwald stamp, verso, lower center.
About this work
Overview
A King Pursued by a Unicorn is an engraving on laid paper created by French artist Jean Duvet around 1555. The work is characteristic of Duvet's style, known for dense compositions and intense themes.
Subject & Meaning
The engraving depicts a chaotic scene where a king on horseback is chased by a unicorn, amidst twisted trees and crumbling buildings. The unicorn's glowing horn, a symbol often associated with purity or power, is a focal point, suggesting a deeper meaning or moral lesson.
Technique & Style
Duvet's engraving is marked by crowded compositions and a naive quality, deviating from typical Renaissance printmaking conventions. The dense lines and detailed textures create a sense of complexity and visual tension.
History & Provenance
Jean Duvet, active from at least 1485 until after 1562, was a French goldsmith and engraver considered the first significant French printmaker. He produced around 73 known plates, characterized by their freedom and immediacy.
Own this work as a print
Artist & collection
Artist
Jean Duvet (1485 – after 1562) was a French Renaissance goldsmith and engraver, now best known for his engravings.
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